Kedah bans 4D lottery shops, restrict sale of alcohol

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 15: Kedah government is set to ban all licensed gambling operators in the state, raising concern among critics that non-Muslim activities are being subjected to moral policing.

Kedah Menteri Besar (MB) Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor stated that the decision not to issue new gambling licences or renew existing ones was made to address social ills caused by gambling.

“This is to ensure a gambling-free Kedah.

“Gambling, as we all know, has resulted in the breakdown of family systems and even civilisations, as well as financial problems,” he said.

Sanusi said that as long as he is the menteri besar, Kedah would stay gambling-free.

“Those who want to buy (4-D lottery numbers) can travel to Penang.”

“Gambling shop owners benefit, but the effects of gambling are felt by the people, particularly non-Muslims,” Sanusi said.

Sanusi also said that alcohol sales restrictions will be implemented on the duty-free island of Langkawi, as well as in rural districts of Kedah, where the demand for such drinks is minimal.

According to Sanusi, the state executive meeting last week considered regulating the sale of alcohol in Langkawi, where such sales are permitted, and at unlicensed businesses throughout the state.

“We are hoping that they will no longer sell them openly in Kedah. These steps are being taken to guarantee that Kedahans always remain sober,” he said.